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Tactical Toters

Pairing Fit With Functionality

Everywhere you look these days you can see the casual uniform of the day — cargo (tactical) pants paired with a T-shirt, polo or camp shirt. People of all ages and walks of life are dressing this way. As a cop, whether you work under cover, train hard or just like the style, it’s important to understand your needs and learn who can accommodate them. You’ll likely be using this casual uniform while carrying a gun, knife, flashlight and spare ammo, in addition to normal stuff like your wallet, keys and cell phone.

We’ve tested a vast array of tactical pants, and while they’re all very similar, they’re also very different — just like you and me. Depending upon a manufacturer’s cut, and your body shape, one brand may work well for you but be a dismal failure for someone else. There’s no magic formula, and you may have to try several different makers to find the right fit — and function.

For you lady cops, things get even more complex for us with our curves. The notion we must somehow look “hot” or stay “fashionable” is just silly. It’s not about being cute — it’s about doing a job. Our pants should not be hip-huggers nor should they be tight. Ease of movement, access to gear and not having “thongage” is tantamount. Sorry boys, but it had to be said.

It’s hard for manufacturers to fit everyone; alterations should always be considered part of the purchasing process. Having said that, manufactures need to understand if they lower rises (how high your pants ride on your waist) or don’t have longer hem lengths available, they’re ignoring many users who simply can’t use their products — this holds true for men’s lines, too. It’s much easier shortening a rise or length at the tailor, than it is to do the opposite.